Fuel dispenser anti-skimming input device

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods for detecting fraud. One method includes providing an input device, the input device having processing circuitry, a memory, and at least one information receiving module for receiving information associated with a user of the input device. The method also includes providing a sensor in electronic communication with the processing circuitry. The sensor has a sensor coil, and the sensor coil is disposed proximate the at least one information receiving module. Further, the method includes flowing alternating electrical current through the sensor coil to generate a magnetic field, measuring at least one electrical characteristic of the sensor, and providing first information representative of the at least one electrical characteristic to the processing circuitry. Finally, the method includes storing in the memory second information representative of at least one predetermined value of the at least one electrical characteristic and comparing the first information with the second information.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 62/031,676, titled “Fuel Dispenser Anti-Skimming Input Device,”filed Jul. 31, 2014, which is hereby relied upon and incorporated hereinby reference for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to fuel dispenserand other retail payment systems. More particularly, embodiments of theinvention relate to systems and methods for detecting and preventingfraud caused by skimming devices associated with various payment systeminput devices.

BACKGROUND

By way of background, payment systems have been incorporated intofueling sites in order to allow a customer to pay for fuel and othergoods and services (such as a car wash, fast food, or convenience storeproducts) using a credit or debit card. Such payment systems comprisevarious input devices, such as card readers and PIN pads, which areconfigured to accept data necessary to process the payment. The customermay provide certain payment data by presenting a payment card bearing amagnetic stripe or chip to a payment card reader. Data stored on thepayment card may include one or more of the following: a Primary AccountNumber (PAN), the cardholder's name, a service code, and the card'sexpiration date. Also, if required to complete the transaction, thecustomer may enter account information such as a personal identificationnumber (PIN) using a PIN entry device (e.g., a PIN pad). The systemcommunicates the data to a remote host system responsible for thecustomer's account for verification.

Fraud poses continuing challenges to customers, merchants, and banks,among others. One example of such fraud is known as “skimming,” whichgenerally refers to any unauthorized attempt to acquire data associatedwith a transaction at an input device. Such data can include credit ordebit card numbers, PINs, or other account information. Those of skillin the art are familiar with examples of techniques used to “skim”transaction data, which often involve the placement of an inconspicuousdevice capable of capturing data in the vicinity of an input device. Forinstance, fraudsters may overlay a data capture device resembling a cardreader or keypad on the actual card reader or keypad so that, when auser completes a transaction, the overlaid device simultaneouslycaptures the user's account information. In some cases, the data capturedevice also transmits the captured data to the fraudsters. To furtheravoid detection, skimmers have also placed data-capture devices withinan input device or behind a bezel or fascia in which an input device ismounted. In other cases, fraudsters have installed small, unobtrusivecameras in the vicinity of a PIN pads to capture PINs. Additionalinformation regarding “skimming” fraud is provided in commonly-assignedU.S. Pat. No. 8,132,721, the entire disclosure of which is incorporatedby reference herein for all purposes.

Attempts have been made to combat fraud caused by skimming. Knownmethods include ultrasonic monitoring of an area in front of a cardreader or for changes in “acoustic impedance.” Other methods includenarrowband monitoring for electrical emissions and attempts atelectronic “jamming” of a skimming device overlaid on an input device.As those of skill in the art are aware, however, these methods sufferfrom a variety of drawbacks. With the ultrasonic monitoring method, forexample, temperature and humidity compensation can complicate attemptsto detect a change in “acoustic impedance” in the area surrounding themouth of a payment card reader. Further, ultrasonic monitoring of thearea in front of the card reader has limited resolution, it cannotmonitor the card reader interior, and the potential locations ofultrasonic transceivers are constrained by the layout of the card readerbezel.

SUMMARY

The present invention recognizes and addresses disadvantages of priorart constructions and methods. According to one embodiment, the presentinvention provides a system for detecting fraud. The system comprises aninput device comprising processing circuitry, a memory, and at least oneinformation receiving module for receiving information associated with auser of the input device. The system also comprises a sensor inelectronic communication with the processing circuitry. The sensorcomprises at least one sensor coil. The at least one sensor coil isdisposed proximate the at least one information receiving module. Inaddition, the system comprises a magnetic field generated at the atleast one sensor coil. The processing circuitry is operative to receiveinformation representative of at least one electrical characteristic ofthe at least one sensor coil, and the memory has stored thereininformation representative of a predetermined value of the at least oneelectrical characteristic.

According to a further embodiment, the present invention provides amethod of detecting fraud associated with an input device. The methodcomprises the step of providing an input device, the input devicecomprising processing circuitry, a memory, and at least one informationreceiving module for receiving information associated with a user of theinput device. Also, the method comprises providing a sensor inelectronic communication with the processing circuitry. The sensorcomprises at least one sensor coil, and the at least one sensor coil isdisposed proximate the at least one information receiving module.Further, the method comprises flowing alternating electrical currentthrough the at least one sensor coil to generate a magnetic field,measuring at least one electrical characteristic of the sensor, andproviding first information representative of the at least oneelectrical characteristic to the processing circuitry. Finally, themethod comprises storing in the memory second information representativeof at least one predetermined value of the at least one electricalcharacteristic and comparing the first information with the secondinformation.

According to yet another embodiment, the present invention provides amethod of detecting fraud associated with an input device. The methodcomprises the step of providing an input device, the input devicecomprising processing circuitry, a memory, and at least one informationreceiving module for receiving information associated with a user of theinput device. Also, the method comprises providing a sensor inelectronic communication with the processing circuitry, the sensorcomprising at least one coil. Further, the method comprises causing analternating electrical current to flow through the at least one coil,measuring losses at the at least one sensor, and providing firstinformation representative of the detected losses to the processingcircuitry. Finally, the method comprises comparing the first informationwith information stored in the memory regarding an expected value oflosses detected at the at least one sensor.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate the scope of the presentinvention and realize additional aspects thereof after reading thefollowing detailed description of preferred embodiments in associationwith the accompanying drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including thebest mode thereof directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is setforth in the specification, which makes reference to the appendeddrawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic representation of a retail fuel dispensingenvironment in which an embodiment of the present invention may beutilized.

FIG. 2 is a front elevation of an exemplary fuel dispenser that mayoperate within the retail fueling environment of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a side view of a secure card reader input device with whichembodiments of the present invention may be used.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the input device of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a system comprising a cardreader input device constructed in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the control and sensing electronics of thesystem of FIG. 5 in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating steps of a method of detecting fraudcaused by skimming according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional exploded view of a systemcomprising a card reader input device and an anti-skimming sensor moduleconstructed in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the control and sensing electronics of thesensor module of FIG. 8 in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification anddrawings is intended to represent same or analogous features or elementsof the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to presently preferred embodimentsof the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in theaccompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation ofthe invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will beapparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variationscan be made in the present invention without departing from the scope orspirit thereof. For instance, features illustrated or described as partof one embodiment may be used on another embodiment to yield a stillfurther embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present inventioncovers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of theappended claims and their equivalents.

Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods whichmay be used to detect fraud caused by skimming associated with one ormore input devices. As used herein, the term “input device” broadlyrefers to devices, including but not limited to encrypting PIN pads,keypads, touchscreens, secure card readers, and smartcard readers, whichare capable of receiving information associated with a user of the inputdevice. Such information may include information associated with apayment card, such as a PAN or other account number, the user's name, aservice code, and the card's expiration date. Further, such informationcan include data associated with payment devices processed on-site or ina private retailer's network, such as data from loyalty orprogram-specific cards.

In some embodiments, an input device in accordance with the presentinvention may comprise a secure area. The secure area may be atamper-protected physical enclosure for components of the input devicewhich carry sensitive information, such as encryption keys or customeraccount numbers. Thus, the secure area may be protected by one or moretamper-responsive conductor circuits and/or encased in epoxy or thelike. Background information regarding secure areas for electroniccomponents of an input device is found in U.S. Pat. No. 6,853,093 toCohen et al., the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference for all purposes.

Some embodiments of the present invention are particularly suitable foruse with input devices in a retail service station environment, and thebelow discussion will describe preferred embodiments in that context.However, those of skill in the art will understand that the presentinvention is not so limited. In fact, it is contemplated that thepresent invention be used with any appropriate transaction environment.Additionally, it is contemplated that the present invention be used withany suitable input device which receives information that requiresprotection from skimming.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , an exemplary fueling environment 10 maycomprise a central building 12, a car wash 14, and a plurality offueling islands 16. The central building 12 need not be centrallylocated within the fueling environment 10, but rather is the focus ofthe fueling environment 10, and may house a convenience store 18 and/ora quick serve restaurant 20 therein. Both the convenience store 18 andthe quick serve restaurant 20 may include a point of sale (POS) 22, 24,respectively. POS 22, 24 may comprise a single computer or serveroperatively connected to an associated card reader and payment terminal.Additionally, POS 22, 24 may include a display, a touch screen, and/orother input devices.

The central building 12 may further house a site controller (SC) 26,which in an exemplary embodiment may be the PASSPORT® POS system, soldby Gilbarco Inc. of Greensboro, N.C., although third party sitecontrollers may be used. Site controller 26 may control theauthorization of fueling transactions and other conventional activitiesas is well understood, and site controller 26 may preferably be inoperative communication with each POS. Alternatively, site controller 26may be incorporated into a POS, such as point of sale 22 if needed ordesired.

Further, site controller 26 may have an off-site communication link 28allowing communication with a remote host processing system 30 forcredit/debit card authorization, content provision, reporting purposesor the like, as needed or desired. In one embodiment, communication link28 may be a stand alone router, switch, or gateway, although it shouldbe appreciated that site controller 26 may additionally perform thefunctions of, and therefore replace, such a device. The off-sitecommunication link 28 may be routed through the Public SwitchedTelephone Network (PSTN), the Internet, both, or the like, as needed ordesired. Remote host processing system 30 may comprise at least oneserver maintained by a third party, such as a financial institution.Although only one remote host processing system 30 is illustrated, thoseof skill in the art will appreciate that in a retail payment systemallowing payment via payment devices issued by multiple payment cardcompanies or financial institutions, site controller 26 may be incommunication with a plurality of remote host processing systems 30.

Car wash 14 may have a POS 32 associated therewith that communicateswith site controller 26 for inventory and/or sales purposes. Car wash 14alternatively may be a stand alone unit. Note that car wash 14,convenience store 18, and quick serve restaurant 20 are all optional andneed not be present in a given fueling environment.

Fueling islands 16 may have one or more fuel dispensers 34 positionedthereon. Fuel dispensers 34 may be, for example, the ENCORE® fueldispenser sold by Gilbarco Inc. of Greensboro, N.C. Fuel dispensers 34are in electronic communication with site controller 26 through anysuitable link, such as two wire, RS 422, Ethernet, wireless, etc. ifneeded or desired.

Fueling environment 10 also has one or more underground storage tanks(USTs) 36 adapted to hold fuel therein. As such, USTs 36 may each be adouble walled tank. Further, each UST 36 may include a tank monitor (TM)38 associated therewith. Tank monitors 38 may communicate with fueldispensers 34 (either through site controller 26 or directly, as neededor desired) to determine amounts of fuel dispensed and compare fueldispensed to current levels of fuel within USTs 36 to determine if USTs36 are leaking.

Tank monitor 38 may communicate with site controller 26 and further mayhave an off-site communication link 40 for leak detection reporting,inventory reporting, or the like. Much like off-site communication link28, off-site communication link 40 may be through the PSTN, theInternet, both, or the like. If off-site communication link 28 ispresent, off-site communication link 40 need not be present and viceversa, although both links may be present if needed or desired.

Further information on and examples of fuel dispensers and retailfueling environments are provided in U.S. Pat. No. 6,435,204 (entitled“Fuel Dispensing System”); U.S. Pat. No. 5,956,259 (entitled“Intelligent Fueling”); U.S. Pat. No. 5,734,851 (entitled “MultimediaVideo/Graphics in Fuel Dispensers”); U.S. Pat. No. 6,052,629 (entitled“Internet Capable Browser Dispenser Architecture”); U.S. Pat. No.5,689,071 (entitled “Wide Range, High Accuracy Flow Meter”); U.S. Pat.No. 6,935,191 (entitled “Fuel Dispenser Fuel Flow Meter Device, Systemand Method”); and U.S. Pat. No. 7,289,877 (entitled “Fuel DispensingSystem for Cash Customers”), all of which are incorporated herein byreference in their entireties for all purposes. An exemplary tankmonitor 38 may be the TLS-450 manufactured and sold by the Veeder-RootCompany of Simsbury, Conn. For more information about tank monitors andtheir operation, reference is made to U.S. Pat. No. 5,423,457 (entitled“Real time tank product loss detection system”); U.S. Pat. No. 5,400,253(entitled “Automated Statistical Inventory Reconciliation System forConvenience Stores and Auto/truck Service Stations”); U.S. Pat. No.5,319,545 (entitled “System to Monitor Multiple Fuel Dispensers and FuelSupply Tank”); and U.S. Pat. No. 4,977,528 (entitled “Apparatus andMethod for Determining the Amount of Material in A Tank”), all of whichare incorporated by reference herein in their entireties for allpurposes.

FIG. 2 illustrates a fuel dispenser 34 that may operate in associationwith site controller 26. Dispenser 34 includes a control system 42,which may be a processor, microprocessor, controller, microcontroller,or other suitable electronics with associated memory and softwareprograms running thereon. In a preferred embodiment, control system 42is comparable to the microprocessor-based control systems used in CRINDand TRIND type units sold by Gilbarco Inc. Control system 42 is inoperative communication with site controller 26. Control system 42further controls various aspects of the fuel dispenser 34 as describedin more detail below.

The memory of control system 42 may be any suitable memory orcomputer-readable medium as long as it is capable of being accessed bythe control system, including random access memory (RAM), read-onlymemory (ROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), or electrically EPROM(EEPROM), CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical disk storage, solid-state drive(SSD), magnetic disc storage, including floppy or hard drives, any typeof suitable non-volatile memories, such as secure digital (SD), flashmemory, memory stick, or any other medium that may be used to carry orstore computer program code in the form of computer-executable programs,instructions, or data. Control system 42 may also include a portion ofmemory accessible only to control system 42.

In the illustrated embodiment, dispenser 34 has a base 44 and a top 46,with a canopy 48 supported by two side panels 50. Fuel dispenser 34 issubdivided into multiple compartments. In this regard, a hydraulic area52 encloses hydraulic components and an electronic area 54 encloseselectronic components. A vapor barrier may be used to separate thehydraulic area 52 from the electronic area 54.

Several components used to control fuel flow may be housed within thehydraulic area 52. Fuel from USTs 36 is pumped through a piping networkinto inlet pipe 56. Fuel being dispensed passes though a meter 58, whichis responsive to flow rate or volume. A displacement sensor 60 (e.g., apulser) is employed to generate a signal in response to fuel flow thoughthe meter 58. Signals indicative of the flow of fuel being dispensed areprovided to control system 42 via control lines 62. Control/data lines62 may provide control signaling to a valve 64 that may be opened andclosed to permit or not permit dispensing of fuel.

Meter flow measurements from sensor 60 are collected by control system42. Control system 42 also typically performs calculations such as costassociated with a fuel dispensing transaction. Additionally, controlsystem 42 controls transactional processing at fuel dispenser 34 as willbe described in more detail below.

As a dispensing transaction progresses, fuel is then delivered to a hose66 and through a nozzle 68 into the customer's vehicle. Dispenser 34includes a nozzle boot 70, which may be used to hold and retain nozzle68 when not in use. Nozzle boot 70 may include a mechanical orelectronic switch to indicate when nozzle 68 has been removed for a fueldispensing request and when nozzle 68 has been replaced, signifying theend of a fueling transaction. A control line provides a signaling pathfrom the electronic switch to control system 42. Control system 42 mayuse signaling received via the control line in order to make adetermination as to when a transaction has been initiated or completed.

Control/data lines 72 provide electronic communication between controlsystem 42 and a user interface 74. User interface 74 includes variouscombinations of subsystems to facilitate customer interaction withdispenser 34 and acceptance of payment for dispensed fuel. A bezel 76acts as a lip around the various subsystems of interface 74. In mostcases, bezel 76 is flush with the face of the fuel dispenser; however,in some embodiments it may extend outwardly from the face, in effectforming a raised lip. Bezel 76 may also comprise a plurality of sectionsthat frame or house various subsystems or components.

As shown, user interface 74 includes several input devices with whichembodiments of the present invention may be used. For example, userinterface 74 may include a keypad 78. Keypad 78 is typically used forentry of a PIN if the customer is using a debit card for payment of fuelor other goods or services. In a preferred embodiment, keypad 78 may bethe FlexPay™ encrypting PIN pad offered by Gilbarco Inc. User interface74 may also include a secure card reader 80 for accepting credit, debit,or other chip or magnetic stripe cards for payment. Additionally, securecard reader 80 may accept loyalty or program-specific cards.

User interface 74 may also include other input devices such as acontactless card reader 82 (e.g., for integrated circuit or “smart”cards). Further, user interface 74 may include other payment ortransactional devices such as a bill acceptor 84, a receipt printer 86,and a change delivery device 88. Receipt printer 86 may provide acustomer with a receipt of the transaction carried out at fuel dispenser34. Change delivery device 88 may deliver change to a customer foroverpayment. Other input devices, such as an optical reader and abiometric reader, are also contemplated.

A display 90 may be used to display information, such astransaction-related prompts and advertising, to the customer. In someembodiments, a touch screen may be used for display 90. In this case,display 90 may be configured to display a virtual keypad for receivingpayment data such as a PIN of a debit card or the billing zip code of acredit card, for instance. Display 90 may also be used to receive aselection from the customer regarding the displayed information.

The customer may use soft keys 92 to respond to information requestspresented to the user via the display 90. An intercom 94 may be providedto generate audible cues for the customer and to allow the customer tointeract with an attendant. In addition, dispenser 34 may include atransaction price total display 96 that presents the customer with theprice for fuel that is dispensed. A transaction gallon total display 98may be used to present the customer with the measurement of fueldispensed in units of gallons or liters. Octane selection buttons 100may be provided for the customer to select which grade of fuel is to bedispensed before dispensing is initiated. Finally, price per unit (PPU)displays 102 may be provided to show the price per unit of fueldispensed in either gallons or liters, depending on the programming ofdispenser 34.

As noted above, embodiments of the invention relate to systems andmethods for detecting skimming associated with one or more inputdevices. For example, some embodiments provide a system comprising acard reader which may be used for detecting skimming. In this regard,FIG. 3 is a side view of a secure card reader input device 110 withwhich embodiments of the present invention may be used, and FIG. 4 is afront view of secure card reader 110. Although some embodiments of thepresent invention are described below with reference to card reader 110,those of skill in the art will appreciate that the present invention maybe used with any suitable input device, including manual or motorizedcard readers, keypads, PIN pads, touchscreens, or the like.

Card reader 110 may comprise a bezel 112 in which a dual-sided read headis disposed for receiving information from a payment card, such as amagnetic stripe or EMV card, which may be inserted into a read slot 114.Card reader 110 may further comprise a housing 116 containing controland sensing electronics (described in more detail below) and at leastone input-output (“I/O”) port 118 for receiving and loading data, suchas encryption keys. In presently preferred embodiments, secure cardreader 110 may be similar to the MagTek® PermaSeal secure card reader orthe FlexPay™ secure card reader offered by Gilbarco Inc. Additionalbackground regarding the operation and internal components of securecard readers is provided in U.S. Pub. App. No. 2013/0140364, entitled“Systems and Methods for Detecting and Preventing Tampering of CardReaders,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein inits entirety for all purposes.

As will be appreciated, card reader 110 may be configured for mountingwith a bezel of a fuel dispenser, such as bezel 76 described above.Thus, bezel 112 of card reader 110 may define a front face 120 and aflange 122 disposed behind front face 120. After mounting, front face120 is flush with a front surface of the fuel dispenser bezel and flange122 adjoins a rear surface of the fuel dispenser bezel. Because flange122 defines a larger area than front face 120, flange 122 preventsremoval of card reader 110 from the front of the fuel dispenser bezeland offers a measure of weather protection for the electronics inhousing 116.

A bracket may preferably be used to secure card reader 110 to the fueldispenser bezel, although other mounting methods are contemplated. Asshown in FIG. 3 , card reader 110 may preferably define a gap 124 aboutits periphery between housing 116 and flange 122. Gap 124 is sized toreceive a thin, u-shaped bracket which may be removably attached to cardreader 110 by friction-fit. The bracket may preferably have an arealarger than that of flange 122 and define a plurality of apertures. Theapertures may be sized to receive mounting screws or other fasteners. Asthe bracket is coupled to the fuel dispenser bezel, flange 122 is forcedtoward the rear surface of the fuel dispenser bezel to secure cardreader 110 in place.

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a system 130 comprising acard reader input device 132 constructed in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. Card reader input device 132 ispreferably configured to extract information associated with a user froma payment card, such as a magnetic strip card, smart card, loyalty card,or the like. Input device 132 may preferably be similar in some respectsto secure card reader 110, described above, and thus input device 132may comprise a bezel 134 in which a magnetic read head 136, which may bedual-sided, is disposed and a housing 138 containing control and sensingelectronics. The control and sensing electronics may comprise processingcircuitry 140, a smart card contact block 142, a memory 144, and atleast one I/O port 146. In some embodiments, as discussed in more detailbelow, the control and sensing electronics may comprise a sensorassembly including sensor circuitry 148 in electronic communication witha plurality of coils 150, 152, 154.

Processing circuitry 140 may be in electronic communication withmagnetic read head 136, smart card contact block 142, memory 144, I/Oport 146, and sensor circuitry 148. Processing circuitry 140 may carryout encryption, functional, and control processing for input device 132.In this regard, processing circuitry 140 may comprise one or moreprocessors, microprocessors, programmable logic devices, or otherprocessing components. Memory 144 may store one or more types ofsensitive information, including encryption keys or customer accountinformation. In addition or in alternative to memory 144, processingcircuitry 140 may comprise one or more volatile or non-volatile memorycomponents that store information accessible to processing circuitry140.

As described in more detail below, processing circuitry 140 may compriseone or more secure processors programmed to compare information receivedfrom sensor circuitry 148 with reference information stored in memory144 (or a remote location, such as a fuel dispenser control system, asite controller, a cloud server, or another remote computing device) todetect the presence of a skimming device or an attempted skimming fraud.Further, processing circuitry 140 may preferably be configured to takean appropriate action to prevent fraud if processing circuitry 140detects a suspected skimming device or skimming fraud. For example,processing circuitry 140 may be configured, in the event of suspectedfraud, to erase preselected information from memory, render itselfand/or input device 132 partially or completely inoperable, and/or set aflag and send a message alerting appropriate personnel that input device132 should be inspected.

In this embodiment, input device 132 may be both a magnetic strip cardreader as well as a smart card reader, though this is not required inall embodiments. In this regard, magnetic read head 136 is configured toextract information from a magnetic strip on a user's card, such as amagnetic strip card, smart card, loyalty card, or the like. Suchinformation may include a PAN, loyalty program number, or any otherinformation commonly stored on tracks 1 or 2 of a magnetic strip paymentcard. Smart card contact block 142 is configured for establishingelectrical contact with an IC embedded in a smart card or EMV card.Processing circuitry 140 preferably communicates with smart card contactblock 142 to extract information from a smart card inserted in inputdevice 132.

I/O port 146 may provide a physical communication interface throughwhich signals indicative of information extracted from a card insertedin input device 132 may be communicated. As noted above, I/O port 146may also be used for receiving and loading data, such as encryptionkeys. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that, in many cases,information extracted from a card associated with a user of input device132 may be encrypted prior to transmission via I/O port 146. I/O port146 is preferably in electronic communication with a remote paymenthost, as is well known. In addition, I/O port 146 may be in electroniccommunication with a variety of other remote devices, such as a fueldispenser control system, a retail fueling environment POS, a sitecontroller, a cloud server, or another remote computer or server. In oneembodiment, input device 132 may be in electronic communication with oneor more payment hosts via off-site communication link 28, describedabove.

In embodiments of the present invention, an input device may beconfigured to detect the presence of a skimming device in the vicinityof the input device or an attempted skimming fraud by detecting ormeasuring changes in electrical characteristics of a sensor or sensorcircuit internal to or coupled with the exterior of the input device.For example, the unexpected presence of a conductive or magneticmaterial (such as the magnetic read head of a skimming device) placed inthe vicinity of the sensor may cause a measurable change in certainelectrical characteristics, such as inductance, capacitance, orimpedance. A circuit of a skimming device placed in the vicinity of aninput device may also influence electrical characteristics of thesensor. Aspects of the change in electrical characteristics, such asduration and amount, may then be compared with data comprising referenceor expected levels stored in nonvolatile memory to make a determinationregarding the likelihood that skimming is occurring. In someembodiments, this comparison is performed at the processing circuitry ofthe input device, but this is not required. In other embodiments, thecomparison may be performed at a remote device or server, such as a fueldispenser control system, a site controller, or a cloud computer.

In one preferred embodiment, the sensor may comprise one or moreinductive sensor(s) to detect changes in inductance and/or losses,though in other embodiments, sensor(s) may be configured to detectchanges in electrical characteristics other than inductance, for exampleincluding parallel impedance. Those of skill in the art are familiarwith inductive sensors. In general, an inductive sensor may comprise acircuit having an oscillator configured to generate an AC currentthrough a coil to generate an AC magnetic field. When a conductivematerial, such as a metal object, is brought into the vicinity of thecoil, this magnetic field will induce eddy currents on the surface ofthe conductive material. The eddy currents are a function of the sizeand composition of the conductive material and its distance from thecoil. The eddy currents generate their own magnetic field, which opposesthe magnetic field generated at the coil. (In other words, the eddycurrents can be thought of as the secondary core of a transformer, withthe coil being the primary core of the transformer.) This adds dependentinductive and loss (i.e., resistive) components to the circuit which canthen be measured. The inductance at the coil includes both the coil'sinductance and the coupled inductance of the conductive material.Likewise, the coil has a resistance which includes both the parasiticseries resistance of the coil and the parasitic resistance of the eddycurrents.

Preferred embodiments of an inductive sensing approach may require theinductive sensor to be accurate and sensitive to small changes. Further,the inductive sensor(s) are preferably in operative electroniccommunication with sensor circuitry capable of measuring and monitoringchanges in either or both of the inductance and losses, or resistance,as a result of conductive objects in the vicinity of the sensor. In theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 , the sensor comprises coils 150, 152,and 154 integrated inside input device 132 and in electroniccommunication with sensor circuitry 148. Thus, the sensor is an integralpart of the electronics of input device 132 and may use power providedto input device 132 for operation. The sensor cooperates with processingcircuitry 148 to detect the attempts at skimming fraud. In someembodiments, it is contemplated that sensor circuitry 148 may beincorporated into or a part of processing circuitry 140.

More particularly, sensor circuitry 148 may preferably compriseelectrical circuit components suitable for measuring inductance, losses,or other electrical characteristics at one or more sensing coils. Thoseof skill in the art can select suitable sensor circuitry 148 for thispurpose. In a preferred embodiment, however, sensor circuitry 148 maycomprise one or more application-specific integrated circuits formeasuring inductance and/or losses, such as but not limited to theLDC1000, LDC1612, or LDC1614 inductance-to-digital converters offered byTexas Instruments, Inc. of Dallas, Tex. With 16, 24, or 28 bitresolution, the detection process may be capable of detecting andresolving very small changes in inductance and loss parameters.

In general, the number and placement of the sensing coil(s) will dependon the particular input device with which embodiments of the presentinvention are used and the type of skimming fraud anticipated. Further,the operating frequencies and/or timing considerations of the coil(s)may be set as a function of system requirements. In some cases, fewer ormore than three coils may be provided, and the coil(s) may be disposedin locations other than those shown schematically in FIG. 5 . In theillustrated embodiment, however, sensing coils 150, 152, and 154 arepreferably disposed internal to input device 132 in locations whichallow input device 132 to monitor for skimming fraud both with respectto magnetic read head 136 and with respect to smart card contact block142.

More particularly, if a skimming device overlaid on input device 132 isconfigured to capture data from a magnetic strip on a user's card, theskimming device will have a reader component that is placed proximatemagnetic read head 136 so that, when a user inserts the card, theoverlaid device can capture the user's account informationsimultaneously with magnetic read head 136. Thus, coils 150 and 152 arepreferably disposed in bezel 134 proximate magnetic read head 136 toincrease the likelihood that an overlaid skimming device will bedetected. Similarly, if a skimming device overlaid on input device 312is configured to capture data from the IC embedded in a smart card, theskimming device will comprise a component that is placed proximate smartcard contact block 142 in input device 132. Such a component may be, forexample, an IC skimming chip that is plugged inside input device 132 to“sniff” the communication which occurs when a smart card is inserted.Therefore, coil 154 is preferably disposed in housing 138 proximatesmart card contact block 142 to again increase the likelihood that theskimming device is detected. All three coils 150, 152, and 154 arepreferably oriented to maximize their respective sensitivity to thepresence of an unexpected conductive material along an axis which liesin the path of an inserted card.

Operation of input device 132 according to one embodiment of the presentinvention is described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 . Turning firstto FIG. 6 , illustrated is a block diagram of the control and sensingelectronics of system 130 shown in FIG. 5 . More particularly, when itis desired that input device 132 monitor for skimming fraud, processingcircuitry 140 may communicate with sensor circuitry 148 to obtaininformation about the inductance and/or losses measured at coils 150,152, and 154. Sensor circuitry 148 may pass data 156 to processingcircuitry 140. As shown in FIG. 6 , data 156 may comprise inductancedata from each coil (“C1 _(L) Data,” “C2 _(L) Data,” and “C3 _(L) Data”)and/or losses data from each coil (“C1 _(R) Data,” “C2 _(R) Data,” and“C3 _(R) Data”).

In one embodiment, input device 132 may continuously or periodicallymonitor for the presence of skimming fraud. In other embodiments,however, it may be desirable to perform monitoring only at theinitiation of and/or during a transaction at input device 132. Thus,sensor circuitry 148 and sensors 150, 152, 154 may only be actuated(i.e., “woken up”) when processing circuitry 140 detects that a card hasbeen inserted in input device 132. In another embodiment, input device132 may comprise a switch which triggers operation of sensor circuitry148 and sensors 150, 152, 154 when a card is inserted in input device132.

In any event, when processing circuitry 140 receives data 156, it maycompare data 156 with data 158 which has previously been stored inmemory 144. Data 158 may comprise “baseline,” or reference, values ofinductance and/or losses at each coil (“C1 _(L) Baseline,” “C2 _(L)Baseline,” “C3 _(L) Baseline,” “C1 _(R) Baseline,” “C2 _(R) Baseline,”and “C3 _(R) Baseline”). More specifically, data 158 may berepresentative of the inductance and/or losses at each coil duringintended use of input device 132 (i.e., in the absence of any foreignconductors). Further, in some embodiments, data 158 may also comprisevalues of inductance and/or losses at each coil which occur when a smartcard containing a conductive IC is inserted in input device 132.Correspondingly, data 158 may contain information representative of theduration of changes in inductance and/or losses which correspond to atypical smart card transaction.

In some embodiments, the values which comprise data 158 may becalibrated, measured, and stored in memory 144 during manufacture ofinput device 148. In other embodiments, data 158 may be calibrated,measured, and/or stored during or after installation, such as at aterminal, fuel dispenser, POS, or the like. As noted above, memory 144is preferably nonvolatile so that data 158 is not lost if input device132 loses power. Also as noted above, in some embodiments data 158 mayalso or instead be stored in a remote device or server, such as a fueldispenser control system, a site controller, or a cloud computer.

During the comparison of data 156 and data 158, processing circuitry 140may determine whether the inductance and/or losses values of data 156differ from the inductance and/or losses values of data 158 by apredetermined amount. If so, this may be indicative of skimming fraud byitself. In this regard, the predetermined amount may be determinedduring measurement and/or calibration of data 158. Further, thepredetermined amount may differ in value depending on the location of acorresponding sensing coil. For example, the predetermined amount may begreater where a sensing coil is placed proximate smart card contactblock 142, such as coil 154. Accordingly, for the data associated withthis coil, the comparison may require that the difference between data156 and data 158 be greater than the difference caused by an ordinarysmart card transaction.

In some embodiments where at least a predetermined difference betweendata 156 and data 158 exists, however, processing circuitry 140 may alsodetermine whether the difference is associated with a transaction atinput device 132, such as a read of a user's card. In this regard, theinsertion of a smart card with an embedded IC may cause data 156 todiffer from the baseline. It will be appreciated that, in otherembodiments used with input devices other than card readers, data 156may still differ from the baseline values as a result of a transaction,such as where a conductive object on a user's hand or wrist is placed onor near a PIN pad. If the difference occurs in the absence of atransaction, this may also be evidence of skimming fraud. In still otherembodiments, processing circuitry 140 may consider the length of timethat data 156 differs from data 158 by more than a predetermined amount.If this time exceeds the time of a smart card transaction, or if data156 never falls back below the predetermined level with respect to data158, this may likewise be evidence that skimming fraud is beingattempted. In other words, if input device 132 is idle, but there is apermanent detection of changes in inductance and/or losses, this may beevidence of skimming fraud. In some embodiments, all three of thesemethods may be used.

If processing circuitry 140 determines that fraud is occurring or issuspected, it may take any appropriate action to prevent fraud. Forexample, in one embodiment, processing circuitry 140 may set a flag andnotify any device in electronic communication with input device 132(such as, among others, a fuel dispenser control system, a sitecontroller, a remote host, or a cloud server) that input device 132needs to be inspected for the presence of a skimming device. Processingcircuitry 140 can also signal an alarm in some embodiments. In otherembodiments, processing circuitry 140 may disable itself and/or eraseall information stored in memory 144 or elsewhere. In some embodiments,instead of erasing all information stored in memory, processingcircuitry 140 may erase some information stored in memory but preserveinformation necessary to report that fraud is suspected. In yet otherembodiments, processing circuitry 140 may cause input device 132 to lockitself mechanically to prevent further transactions.

In a further embodiment, one or more sensing coil(s) in communicationwith sensor circuitry 148 may be located proximate a mouth 159 of bezel134 to detect whether a conductive material passes through mouth 159 andinto housing 138 of input device 132. Although this configuration willdetect the insertion of the IC embedded in a smart card, it will alsodetect the insertion of any other conductive device into input device132. To discriminate between legitimate insertion of a smart card andillegitimate insertion of a skimming device or another conductive alienobject, when a conductive object passes through mouth 159, processingcircuitry 140 may also check whether a smart card was read at contactblock 142. If not, processing circuitry 140 may then take appropriateaction to prevent fraud. As discussed above, in some embodiments,processing circuitry 140 may also or alternatively compare data 156 forinductance and/or losses measured at coils 150, 152, and/or 154 to data158, which may contain information representative of the inductanceand/or losses at each coil during a “typical” smart card insertionand/or the duration of the change in inductance and/or losses duringsuch an event.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating steps of a method of detecting fraudcaused by skimming according to an embodiment of the present invention.The method starts (step 160), and reference values of inductance and/orlosses for each sensor coil of an input device are determined asdescribe above (step 162). These reference values are then stored in anonvolatile memory (step 164), which as noted above may be at the inputdevice itself or located remotely therefrom. At step 166, transactionsare conducted at the input device. Either continuously during operationof the input device or at least during each transaction, sensorcircuitry of the input device may monitor changes in electricalcharacteristics, such as inductance and/or losses, at the sensor (step168). At step 170, this data is transmitted to suitable processingcircuitry, again either at the input device itself or at a remotedevice.

Next, the processing circuitry may compare the data received from thesensor circuitry to the reference values previously stored in memory(step 172). At step 174, the processing circuitry may determine whetherthe data received from the sensor circuitry differs from the referencevalues by at least a predetermined amount. If it does not, the methodmay start again at step 160. If it does, however, the processingcircuitry may determine whether the detected difference is associatedwith a transaction at the input device, such as a card being read or aPIN being entered (step 176). If a transaction is ongoing, the methodmay again return to step 160. If a transaction is not occurring,however, the processing circuitry may evaluate the length of time thatthe data received from the sensor circuitry has differed from thereference value (step 178). If the duration does not exceed apredetermined duration, the method may return to step 160. If thisduration instead does exceed a predetermined duration, such as thelength of time it takes to complete a transaction, the processingcircuitry may determine that skimming fraud is being attempted and takeany action described above to stop or prevent the fraud (step 180). Atstep 182, the process ends.

A system 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention isdescribed with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 . In this regard, FIG. 8 is aschematic cross-sectional exploded view of system 200, which comprises acard reader input device 202 and an anti-skimming sensor module 204. Asdescribed below, anti-skimming sensor module 204 may be configured as a“retrofit” sensor assembly for existing input devices for which it isdesired to detect and prevent skimming. FIG. 9 is a block diagram of thecontrol and sensing electronics of sensor module 204.

Referring first to FIG. 8 , input device 202 may be in some respectsanalogous to input device 132, described in detail above. In thisregard, input device 202 may comprise a bezel 206 in which a magneticread head 208 is disposed and a housing 210 containing control andsensing electronics. The control and sensing electronics may compriseprocessing circuitry 212, a smart card contact block 214, a memory 216,and at least one I/O port 218.

In contrast to input device 132 of system 130 described above, however,a sensor and sensor circuitry are not provided internal to input device202. Rather, the control and sensing electronics of input device 202 maycomprise wireless communications electronics 220 in electroniccommunication with one or more antennas 222. Communications electronics220 and antenna 222 are preferably configured to wirelessly transmitdata to and receive data from analogous communications electronics 224(FIG. 9 ) disposed in sensor module 204 which is external to inputdevice 202. The wireless communications are preferably conductedpursuant to a suitable wireless communications standard, such as theradio frequency communications standards IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.15.4,ANT, UWB, Bluetooth, ZigBee, and Wireless USB, HSPA+, and LTE, amongmany others. Those of skill in the art are familiar with and can selectsuitable communications electronics 220, 224. In some embodiments,communications electronics 220 and antenna 222 may alternatively bedisposed within the structure (e.g., an ATM, a counter, a terminal,SPOT, fuel dispenser, etc.) to which input device 202 is coupled and inelectronic communication with processing circuitry 212. This may be thecase, for example, where an existing input device does not includecommunications electronics 220 and antenna 222.

Sensor module 204 is preferably configured for coupling with an exteriorof an existing input device. Accordingly, it will be appreciated thatthe shape of sensor module 204 may depend on the particular input devicewith which it is used. In this embodiment, sensor module 204 maypreferably define a housing 226 configured to encapsulate bezel 206 ofinput device 202. As shown in schematic cross-section in FIG. 8 ,housing 226 may resemble the existing bezel 206 of input device 202 andhave a back surface 228 which generally follows the contour of bezel206. Indeed, in some embodiments, it is contemplated that housing 226may define a shape analogous to that of a skimming device designed to beoverlaid on bezel 206 of input device 202. In certain embodiments,however, sensor module 204 may be configured to be conspicuous in bothform and function so that it is recognizable to users as anti-skimmingtechnology. This may also discourage attempts at skimming fraud.

In any event, sensor module 204 may comprise a power source 230 inelectrical communication with communications and sensing electronics232. Notably, sensor module 204 may preferably comprise a sensor andcircuitry analogous to the sensor circuit described above with referenceto FIGS. 5-7 . Thus, and referring also now to FIG. 9 , communicationsand sensing electronics 232 may comprise sensor circuitry 234 inelectronic communication with a plurality of sensor coils 236, 238, 240.Sensor circuitry 234 may be in electronic communication with processingcircuitry 242. Processing circuitry 242, which may carry out encryption,functional, and control processing for sensor module 204 and which maycomprise one or more processors, microprocessors, programmable logicdevices, or other processing components, is also preferably inelectronic communication with communications electronics 224 (which mayhave one or more associated antennas 244).

In some embodiments, communications and sensing electronics 232 may alsocomprise anti-tamper circuitry 246 in electronic communication withprocessing circuitry 242. Anti-tamper circuitry 246 may be analogous tothe secure area, described above, or it may also comprise ananti-tampering IC or chip. In some embodiments, the anti-tampercircuitry 246 may comprise one or more accelerometers and be configuredto monitor for dismounting events. In other embodiments, anti-tampercircuitry 246 may comprise a microswitch which may be actuated whensensor module 204 is coupled with input device 202. In any event,anti-tamper circuitry may be configured to alert processing circuitry242 when sensor module 204 has been removed from input device 202. It isnoted that, in other embodiments, anti-tamper circuitry 246 may beincorporated in or a part of processing circuitry 242.

Those of skill in the art should be familiar with suitable anti-tampercircuitry 246. In one embodiment, however, anti-tamper circuitry 246 maycomprise a chip analogous to the USIP line of chips offered by MaximIntegrated Products. For example, in the event of tampering such a chipmay erase information stored therein, rendering sensor module 204nonfunctional. In another example, the software or applicationcontrolling sensor circuitry 234 and sensor coils 236, 238, 240 may bestored in a USIP chip. In a further embodiment, anti-tamper circuitry246 may detect dismount via a hall-effect sensor operative to detect achange in magnetic field strength of a suitably-placed magnet. Thechange in magnetic field strength caused by the dismount may then becommunicated to processing circuitry 242.

Power source 230 may be any source of power known to those of skill inthe art and suitable for powering sensor module 204. In someembodiments, power source 230 may be a battery, and housing 226 ofsensor module 204 may define extra space to provide room for a batterycapable of operating for at least several years. Preferably, theelectrical and electronic components of sensor module 204 may utilizelow current and low duty cycle techniques to increase the suitability ofbattery-powered operation.

In other embodiments, however, power source 230 may power sensor module204 via magnetic coupling. In one example, power source 230 may comprisea secondary coil of a transformer, with the primary coil being disposedon or within the structure to which input device 202 is coupled. Theprimary and secondary coils are preferably configured for magneticcoupling, and the energy transferred may be stored in a variety of ways.For example, power source 230 may comprise replaceable or rechargeablebatteries, or one or more capacitors or supercapacitors. In embodimentswhere input device 202 is used in a fuel dispenser, this approach mayprovide an additional benefit of providing voltage isolation from fueldispenser wiring in accordance with applicable certification standards,such as the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards. This approach mayalso facilitate long-term operation of sensor module 204 for a permanentinstallation. Additional background regarding magnetic coupling isprovided in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 6,571,151, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for allpurposes.

As best seen schematically in FIG. 8 , sensor coils 236, 238, and 240are preferably disposed internal to housing 226 in locations which, whensensor module 204 is coupled with bezel 206, place them proximate areasof input device 202 at which a skimming device is most likely to beplaced. In particular, sensor coils 236 and 238 may be located inhousing 226 such that they are disposed above and below magnetic readhead 208 when sensor module 204 is coupled with bezel 206. Likewise,sensor coil 240 may be located in housing 226 such that it is disposednear smart card contact block 214 when sensor module 204 is coupled withbezel 206. As with the shape of housing 226, however, the placement ofsensor coils 236, 238, 240 in housing 226 will depend on the type ofinput device with which embodiments of sensor module 204 is used.

The operation of system 200 may be in many respects similar to theoperation of system 130, described in detail above, with certainexceptions as noted below. As with system 130, the sensor or sensorassembly of input device 202 may continuously or periodically monitorfor the presence of skimming fraud. For example, where input device 202is configured to perform transactions with only magnetic strip cards,the sensor or sensor assembly may periodically monitor for the presenceof skimming fraud. Further, where input device 202 is configured toperform transactions with both magnetic strip cards and smart cards, thesensor or sensor assembly may only monitor for the presence of skimmingfraud when the initiation of a transaction is detected, as describedabove.

In any event, when it is desired that input device 202 monitor forskimming fraud, processing circuitry 242 of sensor module 204 maycommunicate with sensor circuitry 234 to obtain information about theinductance and/or losses measured at coils 236, 238, and 240. In thisregard, sensor circuitry 234 may pass to processing circuitry 242 dataanalogous to data 156, described above. In some embodiments, sensormodule 204 may comprise a memory in which reference data is stored, andprocessing circuitry 242 may itself perform comparisons analogous tothose described above to detect skimming fraud. In a preferredembodiment, however, when processing circuitry 242 receives the data, itmay cause the data to be transferred to processing circuitry 212 ofinput device 202 via communications electronics 224. Communicationselectronics 224 may wirelessly transmit the data to communicationselectronics 220 in input device 202, at which point the data may bepassed to processing circuitry 212.

When processing circuitry 212 receives the data from sensor circuitry234, it may compare this data with reference data previously stored inmemory 216. The reference data may preferably be analogous to data 158,described in detail above, and processing circuitry 212 may perform anyor all of the comparisons explained previously to detect skimming fraud.Also as noted above, in some embodiments, the reference data may also orinstead be stored in a remote device or server, such as a fuel dispensercontrol system, a site controller, or a cloud computer, and in otherembodiments, the comparison may be performed at such a remote device orserver.

If skimming fraud is occurring or is suspected, processing circuitry 212may take appropriate action to prevent fraud as described above.Further, in some embodiments, processing circuitry 242 of sensor module204 may take appropriate action to prevent fraud. For example,processing circuitry 242 may cause communications electronics 224 tocommunicate, via communications electronics 220, with local and remotedevices and/or computers, such as input device 202, a fuel dispensercontrol system, a cloud computer, and/or a payment host. Thereby,processing circuitry 242 may alert appropriate personnel that fraud isoccurring or suspected, or it may cause input device 202 to be locked ordisabled, such as by sending a signal to a fuel dispenser control systemor a POS. Further, in some embodiments, the sensor module 204 may alsolock or disable itself mechanically or electronically.

In embodiments where anti-tamper circuitry 246 is provided, processingcircuitry 242 of sensor module 204 may communicate with anti-tampercircuitry 246 to determine whether tampering has occurred. If tamperingis indicated, such as an attempt to disable input device 202 or to moveor remove input device 202 or sensor module 204, processing circuitry242 may send a signal to processing circuitry 212 of input device 202,and/or to a remote device, via communications electronics 224. Again,any appropriate action may be taken to prevent fraud.

Based on the above, it will be appreciated that embodiments of theinvention provide systems and methods for detecting skimming associatedwith one or more input devices. While one or more preferred embodimentsof the invention have been described above, it should be understood thatany and all equivalent realizations of the present invention areincluded within the scope and spirit thereof. The embodiments depictedare presented by way of example only and are not intended as limitationsupon the present invention. Thus, it should be understood by those ofordinary skill in this art that the present invention is not limited tothese embodiments since modifications can be made. Therefore, it iscontemplated that any and all such embodiments are included in thepresent invention as may fall within the scope and spirit thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for detecting fraud, said systemcomprising: a card reader input device comprising a first housing,wherein first processing circuitry, first wireless communicationselectronics, and at least one of a magnetic read head or a smart cardcontact block are disposed within the first housing; a sensor moduleremovably coupled with an exterior surface of the card reader inputdevice, the sensor module comprising a second housing, the secondhousing comprising a memory; at least one inductive sensor, a powersource, second wireless communications electronics, and secondprocessing circuitry disposed within the second housing; wherein thesecond processing circuitry is in electronic communication with thefirst processing circuitry via the first and second wirelesscommunications electronics; and the memory in the second housing storinginformation representative of a threshold value of at least one ofinductance or losses and computer executable instructions that, whenexecuted by the second processing circuitry, cause the second processingcircuitry to perform the steps of: actuating the at least one inductivesensor obtaining sensor data, the sensor data comprising at least one ofinductance or losses; comparing the sensor data with the informationrepresentative of the threshold value stored in the memory; andtransmitting, using the second wireless communications electronics, awireless signal to the first wireless communications electronics of thecard reader input device.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the powersource comprises a first transformer coil disposed in said secondhousing, and wherein the first transformer coil is magnetically coupledwith a second transformer coil disposed in said first housing.
 3. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein said at least one inductive sensor comprisesat least one coil.
 4. The system of claim 1, further comprising sensorcircuitry in electronic communication with said second processingcircuitry and with said at least one inductive sensor.
 5. The system ofclaim 4, wherein said sensor circuitry is an application-specificintegrated circuit.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the card readerinput device is attached to a structure, and wherein wirelesscommunications electronics are disposed in the structure.
 7. The systemof claim 1, wherein the second housing encapsulates a bezel of the cardreader input device.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the power sourcecomprises a battery.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least oneinductive sensor comprises an inductance to digital converter.